Charity is often discussed in theory, but on 27th March 2026, students of Hekima University College brought it to life by visiting the Missionary Brothers of Charity in Kibera, Nairobi, a home dedicated to caring for physically challenged adults. What unfolded during this Charity Day revealed a deeper truth at the heart of Christian life: that charity is not merely about giving material support, but about offering one’s presence, attention, and love. More than just an outreach, the event embodied the very spirit of Lent; prayer, sacrifice, and charity – bringing to life what had been observed throughout the season.
Preparations for the event began well in advance. On 21st January 2026, the Liturgical Committee convened to organize the initiative, appointing Sister Bernadette Muasa alongside Miss Chinyere Cecelia Ibezim to spearhead the process. Their commitment was evident from the outset; by 24th January, they had already visited the home, met Brother Nicholas, who is in charge, and gathered essential information about the residents’ needs. From then on, coordination continued steadily.
With the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday, 18th February, the entire college community became actively involved. A basket was placed before the altar during Wednesday Masses to collect monetary contributions, complemented by an M-PESA option for donations. Additionally, collection points were set up across both campuses for clothes and dry food items. This collective effort reflected a shared commitment to charity as a lived expression of faith.
On the day of the visit, students arrived at the home at 3:00 PM and were warmly received by the Brothers. The highlight of the visit was the celebration of the Eucharist in the home’s chapel, presided over by Fr. Alexis Valyamugheni and assisted by Deacon Christian Kombe. In his homily, Rev. Christian emphasized charity as a meeting point – where both giver and receiver encounter one another in love and called for interior conversion as the Holy Week approached.
In her address at the end of the Eucharistic celebration, Miss Chinyere Cecelia Ibezim, on behalf of the students’ council, reminded those present that, beyond material offerings, the true purpose of the visit was to share hearts and imitate Christ’s self-giving love. Brother Nicholas, in response, underscored that charity is intrinsic to Christian identity and highlighted the importance of presence over material gifts. Despite the challenges faced in caring for the residents, he affirmed that their strength comes from Christ.
Following the Mass, the students presented donations, including food items, clothes, diapers, and a cash contribution of KShs 20,000. This was followed by moments of interaction with the residents – simple yet deeply moving encounters that left a lasting impression.
One particularly striking moment was when a resident joyfully moved among the visitors, greeting them warmly and even escorting them to the bus as they departed. Such gestures revealed a profound truth: that joy is not dependent on physical ability or material wealth, but flows from within. For many students, this experience reshaped their understanding of charity. It became clear that charity is not merely about giving material support, but about offering one’s presence, attention, and love. In many ways, the students discovered that they received just as much – if not more – than they gave.
The Charity Day thus served as a powerful reminder that true charity springs from the heart. It calls for a recognition of the dignity of every human person and invites a deeper communion with others. Gratitude is extended to all who made the event possible: the Liturgical Committee, the Hekima University Students’ Council, the Dean of Students, the Principal and his deputies, and all members of the community who contributed generously to the initiative’s success.
As a center not only of academic excellence but also of formation for future ministers, Hekima University College is continually called to embody the values it seeks to impart. It is therefore hoped that such initiatives will not only continue but grow stronger, shaping students into men and women who are not only intellectually grounded but also deeply compassionate and committed to lives of service. In this way, charity moves beyond a single event and becomes a lasting way of life.
By Eric Fundi, S.M.M.
